Koh Ker: The Pyramid Temple of Cambodia

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Discover Koh Ker, Cambodia's hidden pyramid temple: a unique Khmer capital lost in the jungle, offering a glimpse into a forgotten era.

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Koh Ker Temple

Koh Ker, a remote temple complex northeast of Siem Reap, was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century. Dominated by the towering Prasat Thom pyramid, this once-lost city offers a unique and less-crowded experience compared to Angkor Wat.

A brief summary to Koh Ker Temple

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Monday 7 am-6 pm
Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
Thursday 7 am-6 pm
Friday 7 am-6 pm
Saturday 7 am-6 pm
Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect, as Koh Ker is a religious site.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the temple complex offers limited shade.
Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Combine your trip with a visit to Beng Mealea, another impressive jungle temple, for a full day of exploration.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Prasat Pram (Koh Ker)

Prasat Pram: The Temple Embraced by Nature

Preah Khan Kampong Svay East Entrance Causeway

Banteay Srei Temple

Banteay Srei: The Citadel of Women

Getting There

Taxi/Car

The most common way to reach Koh Ker is by hiring a private taxi or car from Siem Reap. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours (120 km). From Siem Reap, take Highway 6 to Dam Dek, then turn left and follow the road for 31 km until you reach Beng Mealea. Turn left again and continue for 54 km to Koh Ker. A private taxi from Siem Reap to Koh Ker typically costs between $75 and $100. Negotiate the price beforehand. Entrance tickets to Koh Ker cost $15 per adult. Tickets are purchased at the ticket booth a few kilometers before the temple complex.

Discover more about Koh Ker Temple

Nestled in the Preah Vihear province, Koh Ker stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. From 928 to 944 AD, King Jayavarman IV shifted the capital from Angkor to Koh Ker, marking a short but significant period in Khmer history. During this time, over 50 temples and numerous other structures were erected, transforming the landscape into a thriving urban center. The most iconic structure is Prasat Thom, a seven-tiered sandstone pyramid rising 36 meters above the jungle. Unlike most Khmer temples, which spread horizontally, Prasat Thom ascends vertically, offering panoramic views from its summit. The pyramid likely served as the state temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. After the capital returned to Angkor, Koh Ker was largely abandoned and swallowed by the jungle. Its remote location spared it from the modifications and looting that affected other Khmer sites, allowing visitors to experience a sense of discovery. Today, Koh Ker is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting adventurous travelers eager to explore its hidden temples and unravel its mysteries. Exploring the complex, visitors can witness the unique Koh Ker style, characterized by its bold and expressive imagery.